Pennsylvania Law Protects Workers From Retaliatory Firing After Injury Claims
Many workers who sustain serious injuries while on the job are fearful of seeking the medical treatment they so desperately need because they worry about how a potential Workers’ Compensation claim might affect their status with their employer.
They are hardworking employees, many with families to support and mouths to feed, and they do not want to lose their jobs for seeking the benefits to which they are entitled as a result of their workplace accident. Sometimes, a third party (not the injured person’s employer) is responsible for a worker’s injuries, but they are still hesitant to bring a claim for fear of it negatively impacting their position.
Thankfully, Pennsylvania law protects workers who seek the benefits they are entitled to following a workplace injury. While Pennsylvania is an at-will employment state, meaning that employers can fire an employee at any time for almost any reason, the law specifically prevents employers from firing a worker because they decide to file a Workers’ Compensation claim. Employers are also prohibited from firing workers because they request benefits from their employer, even if the employee has yet to formally file a claim. If you or a loved one has been injured at work, do not be scared to seek the treatment you need and the benefits you have earned. Contact the attorneys at Saltz, Mongeluzzi & Bendesky to explore your options and to make sure you are doing what is best for you and your family.